Scampi With Red Bell Peppers And Zucchini
Juicy shrimp simmered with colorful red bell peppers, zucchini, shallots, and garlic, creating a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for seafood lovers and family dinners.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup butter
- 2 red bell peppers, cut into 2-inch long, 1/2-inch wide strips ⓘ
- 3/4 pound zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch rounds ⓘ
- 3/4 cup chopped shallots ⓘ
- 1/4 cup finely chopped garlic ⓘ
- 1/4 cup drained capers ⓘ
- 2 pounds large uncooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tails left intact ⓘ
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh basil ⓘ
Instructions
- Melt butter in a heavy large skillet over high heat.
- Add bell peppers, zucchini, shallots, and garlic to the skillet.
- Saute until shallots begin to soften, about 4 minutes.
- Mix in drained capers.
- Transfer the mixture to a large baking dish or gratin dish.
- Can be made 4 hours ahead; cool completely, cover, and set aside.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use large, fresh shrimp for a sweet flavor and firm texture. If you don’t have fresh basil, feel free to substitute with dried basil, but use less as it is more concentrated. You can also add a splash of white wine for extra depth when sautéing the vegetables. This dish can be easily adapted with other vegetables like asparagus or snap peas, making it versatile for various tastes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this vibrant scampi over a bed of cooked pasta or alongside crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully, balancing the richness of the butter. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of Mediterranean recipes like Potatoes With Olives And Anchovies for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the scampi in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Stir gently until heated through, ensuring the shrimp remains tender and the vegetables retain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scampi With Red Bell Peppers And Zucchini contains roughly 2524 calories, with 26g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 232g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (119% of the Daily Value), and calcium (100% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 608mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Place them in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water for quicker thawing. This ensures even cooking and helps maintain the shrimp's texture.
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
If you're looking for a healthier option, olive oil can be used instead of butter. It will change the flavor slightly but still provides a rich base for sautéing the vegetables. For a dairy-free version, consider using a vegan butter alternative.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, try incorporating red pepper flakes or a finely chopped jalapeño when sautéing the vegetables. You can also serve the finished dish with a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).